Local racewalkers clean up at state Senior Games, plan anniversary celebration

The Heartland Racewalkers will celebrate their 25th anniversary July 5. But first, President Alan Poisner is taking 97-year old Jean Brunnenkan to lunch Thursday. She’s the oldest Heartland Racewalker.

“She’s an inspiration,” Poisner says. “I use her to tell people it’s never too old to start.”

On June 17, Poisner ran five miles on his treadmill. Three days later, he was one of nine Heartland Racewalkers to compete at the Missouri State Senior Games in Columbia. All nine participants won medals in the 1,500-meter walk, and two walkers set record times in their age groups.

Poisner is 79, pushing 80, a retired faculty member at the University of Kansas Hospital who still does part-time research as a physician. And he always makes sure to make time for walking.

Never miss a local story.

Sign up today for a free 30 day free trial of unlimited digital access.